Neuro-Oncology

Neuro-oncology refers to the diagnosis and treatment of brain cancer, nervous system tumors and nervous system complications caused by other types of cancer. Brain tumors, whether malignant or benign, are serious conditions that require prompt and thorough treatment. Even benign brain tumors can grow and become life-threatening. Patients with brain tumors may experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures and headaches, although these symptoms can vary depending on the type, size and location of the tumor. Some patients may also notice changes in memory, speech, personality or emotions.

Diagnosis of neuro-oncology conditions involves a series of tests such as physical examination, CT scan or MRI to produce internal images of the brain. A biopsy may also be performed to remove a small tissue sample from the targeted area. Our advanced diagnostic technology allows for the most accurate visual evaluation of the brain.

Treatment for brain cancer and related tumors involves thorough yet precise care to effectively remove the tumor without damaging neurological functions. Most cases are treated with complete surgical resection, which may be followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy, especially if the tumor was not completely removed during the initial procedure. We offer patients the most advanced, state-of-the-art cancer treatments, including the Gamma Knife and TomoTherapy, in order to provide safe and effective care for these dangerous conditions.

Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus involves a build up of excess fluid within the brain as a result of an obstruction in the brain that prevents proper fluid drainage.

This condition is usually present at birth, although it can develop later in life as a result of lesions or tumors within the brain, central nervous system infections or severe head injuries. Babies born prematurely with severe bleeding within the ventricles of the brain are likely to develop hydrocephalus, as well as those with development problems in the womb or certain genetic abnormalities. Hydrocephalus affects approximately one out of every 500 children.

Symptoms

Patients with hydrocephalus may experience many different symptoms depending on the patient's age and the progression of the disease. Infants born with this condition often have an unusually large head that increases in size, and may experience:

Vomiting

Sleepiness

Irritability

Seizures

Developmental delays

Older children and adults may experience:

Headaches

Nausea

Blurred vision

Balance problems

Memory loss

Confusion

Urinary incontinence

Each patient may experience a different combination of symptoms depending on their individual condition. It is important to seek medical attention for hydrocephalus to prevent complications such as brain damage and physical disabilities and to help patients live a healthy, normal life.

Diagnosis

In babies, hydrocephalus can often be diagnosed during a normal prenatal ultrasound or after the baby is born and an abnormally large head is noticed. In older children and adults, hydrocephalus is diagnosed through a neurological exam, and CT or MRI imaging tests as symptoms have developed.

The risk of hydrocephalus can be reduced by ensuring that women receive proper prenatal care during pregnancy and take precautions to protect themselves against infectious illnesses that can harm their child. Practicing safety guidelines can help prevent serious head injury and also reduce the risk of hydrocephalus.

Treatment

Treatment for hydrocephalus usually involves surgery to restore proper fluid drainage within the brain. This may be done by placing a shunt within one of the ventricles of the brain leading to another part of the body where the excess fluid can be easily absorbed, such as in the abdomen or heart chambers. A ventriculostomy may also be performed to create a hole in the bottom of one of the brain's ventricles, allowing fluid to flow normally.

After surgery, patients will likely need to undergo occupational therapy or psychology treatment to monitor developmental progress and detect any potential delays as soon as possible.

Neurotrauma

Neurotrauma involves an injury to the brain, spinal cord or peripheral nerves as a result of a fall, motor vehicle accident or other type of traumatic incident. Patients with neurotrauma may experience headache, neck pain, memory problems, confusion, fatigue, nausea, blurred vision and other unsettling symptoms. These conditions can lead to serious complications affecting numerous body systems if not treated properly. It is important for patients to seek immediate care for any type of neurological injury in order to reduce the risk of permanent damage.

Treatment for neurotraumatic conditions depends on the severity of the injury, but may include pain medication, anti-seizure medications or surgery, which may be performed in an emergency setting. Surgery may involve removing blood clots, repairing fractures or creating an opening in the skull to relieve pressure. After treatment, patients will likely need to undergo rehabilitation to restore lost skills such as walking or talking.

Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia, also known as tic douloureux, is a chronic condition that causes severe, shooting pain in the face as a result of a blood vessel pressing on the trigeminal nerve as it exits the brain. This pain usually comes on suddenly and can last from a few seconds to a few minutes, but may be physically and mentally incapacitating. Most patients experience pain on one side of the jaw or cheek.

Many people develop trigeminal neuralgia as a result of aging, as the condition occurs most often in people over the age of 50. It may also be related to multiple sclerosis or other neurological conditions that damage the myelin sheath that protects nerves. Although less common, trigeminal neuralgia may also be caused by a tumor on the trigeminal nerve.

Episodes may be triggered by certain activities that cause a vibration or contact with the cheek, such as shaving, brushing your teeth or applying makeup, as well as eating, drinking or talking. As the condition progresses, episodes of pain may become longer and more frequent.

Since this condition can be caused by several factors, diagnosing trigeminal neuralgia is often difficult. Determining the cause of the pain is crucial in determining the best course of treatment for each individual patient. Treatment for trigeminal neuralgia may include medications such as anticonvulsants and antidepressants, or surgery for more severe or unresponsive cases. Many patients are able to manage the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia by combining drug therapy with alternative treatments such as acupuncture, biofeedback and vitamin therapy.